Alkoxyglycerols

Fatty-acidEther lipidBest with a meal

What is it

Alkoxyglycerols (alkylglycerols) are ether-linked lipids found in shark liver oil, breast milk, and bone marrow. They consist of a glycerol backbone with an alkyl group attached via an ether bond. Shark liver oil is the primary commercial source.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Cancer radiation support (historical)

Mixed Evidence

Early Karolinska studies suggested benefit in cervical cancer radiation therapy. Modern replication is limited and shark liver oil is not part of standard oncology protocols.

Immune support (general)

Mixed Evidence

In vitro and animal studies suggest immune modulation. Human clinical evidence in healthy adults is limited.

How it works

Alkoxyglycerols are taken up by tissues and incorporated into membrane lipids, particularly in immune cells. They have been studied as immune modulators and as supportive agents during cancer treatment, especially radiation therapy. The Swedish Karolinska Institute conducted early studies in the 1950s to 1970s suggesting reduced radiation injury and improved outcomes when shark liver oil was added to cervical cancer radiation treatment. Modern replication is limited.

Dosage

Shark liver oil typical doses: 250 to 500 mg per day, providing 50 to 150 mg of alkylglycerols. Doses in cancer-supportive studies were higher.

When and how to take it

Take with a meal containing fat for best absorption. Daily use over weeks to months for any potential immune effects.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Shark liver oil capsules

Most common commercial source of alkoxyglycerols. Contains other lipids and may have contaminants.

Standard fat-soluble absorption.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Mild GI upset can occur. Shark liver oil may contain environmental contaminants (PCBs, mercury) depending on source; ethical and sustainability concerns also apply to shark-derived products.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data and concerns about contaminants in shark liver oil). People with shark or fish allergy should avoid. Vegetarians and vegans should note the animal source. Ethical concerns about shark harvesting may favor avoidance.

Interactions

No major drug interactions well documented. Theoretical mild antiplatelet effects from accompanying omega-3 fatty acids in shark liver oil.

Food sources

Breast milk

Amount
100 mL
%DV
—

Bone marrow

Amount
30 g
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is shark liver oil sustainable?⌄

Sourcing from threatened shark species is a concern. Look for products with sustainability certification or consider alternatives.

Does it really help with cancer?⌄

Early Karolinska studies were intriguing but not replicated in modern oncology. It is not part of standard care.

References

Alkoxyglycerols on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Alkoxyglycerols (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.